I’ve talked about how to handle the before, during and after your big race, and then how to approach marathon recovery. Today, I am looking at various active, non running activities for fall that will get you back to a routine (after you take a proper break, of course!) while helping you mentally and physically recover from any burnout.

Fall Non Running Activities to Try During Marathon Recovery

As I mentioned in the post about marathon recovery, it is important to give your running muscles (both mental and physical!) enough time to recover and recuperate. After rigorous training, you need to give you mind and body the chance to rebound. That said, marathoners tend not to be able to sit still for long, so what are some non running activities you can pursue and try that won’t overtax your body or brain but will still give you the chance to get back to some sort of routine and maintain some fitness?

Disc Golf (or traditional golf)

Disc Golf is a great way to spend the day outside in the crisp fall air while also getting some good walking in! Granted, not many of us have retained our frisbee skills, but if you have, give it a go! There are also tons of social clubs, so after all the isolation with other running nerds of the marathon season, meet some new people!

Corn Maze

A quintessential fall activity, going to a corn maze would be a great substitute for your long run on Saturday. Grab your family and friends (if you still have them after training) and spend the afternoon with an apple cider, a pumpkin donut, and getting lost and frustrated in the boonies.

You have to admit that this is impressive.

Hiking

Get out and enjoy the weather and scenery before another Polar Vortex hits (which it just might this winter). Laura has great info on hiking, but, if all else fails? Check out the National Parks Service for information on just what you might need, and some parks in your area.

Rock Climbing

Utilize those hard-won leg muscles with rock climbing! With the rise in rock climbing’s popularity over the past few years, it is likely that there is a climbing gym not too far from you!

Raking Leaves

Make your idleness useful with raking leaves! You might even be able to create a little side business out of it. You never know, it might be your untapped talent.

Cleaning Your House

Because you know you weren’t doing that during marathon training. While you are at it, clean out your fridge and scrub your shower. And start wearing real clothes again.

Walk Your Dog

Or walk someone else’s dog (with their permission, of course). Volunteer at a shelter, or just dog sit/walk for a friend. Therapy for mind and body!

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Suzlyfe is a Chicago-based healthy life, fitness, running, and food blog that aims to educate, connect, and inspire: educate readers in an accessible way about fitness, running, and wellness; connect readers to myself (Susie) and others with the same interests and passions; and inspire all to live a life beyond expectations.Email Me

Though I am a RRCA Certified Running Coach and NASM Certified Personal Trainer with a chronic illness, a physician husband, and a lot of experience, and though I may seem like a know it all, please remember that all views expressed on my blog are mine along. Consult your physician before making any personal changes to your mental or physical health and wellness programs.